The Hawkesbury, Russell County, and Stormont Dundas and Glengarry Detachments of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) working together with the Alzheimer Society of Cornwall & District are introducing Project Lifesaver.
On April 26, 2023, the Alzheimer’s Society of Cornwall & District, in collaboration with the OPP, Cornwall and Akwesasne Police, launched the initiative, which is designed to protect and to quickly locate those living with dementia who get lost. This program is now available to residents living in the Counties of Prescott and Russell, and Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry.
Project Lifesaver uses technology to assist in the search and rescue efforts for those who wander and get lost. It has been proven to greatly reduce the search time for police – this timely response can prevent your loved one from harm.
Those who are at high risk of getting lost receive a bracelet transmitter, with a unique frequency. When they get lost, a locator housed with Police Services is used to find that unique frequency.
For eligibility, participants must:
· Have a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of dementia or related disorder
· Be at high risk of wandering
· Have daily contact with a caregiver or family member
· Be restricted from operating a motor vehicle; and
· Live in the five districts of Cornwall, SD&G, Hawkesbury, Russell and Akwesasne.
Project Lifesaver equipment requires daily monitoring by a care partner. Regular visits by an Alzheimer Society worker for equipment maintenance will be included as part of the program.
For all inquiries about Project Lifesaver, call the Alzheimer Society of Cornwall & District at 613-932-4914 or toll-free at 1-888-222-1445. The office is open from Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 106B Second St. W., Cornwall, Ontario.
